Environmental group Alyansa Tigil Mina (ATM) welcomed the Mines and Geosciences Bureau’s (MGB) temporary suspension of Woggle Corporation’s exploration permit, citing it as a response to strong community opposition in Dupax del Norte.
ATM National Coordinator Jaybee Garganera credited local residents for staging sustained protests and barricades that highlighted public safety concerns and the community’s resistance to the mining project.
In a February 5, 2026 order, MGB Assistant Secretary for Mining Concerns and concurrent OIC Director Michael Cabalda directed the immediate suspension of Exploration Permit No. EP000030Il “in the interest of public safety and the maintenance of peace and order.” The agency said the suspension would remain until force majeure conditions cease and safe operational access is restored.
Despite the order, ATM reiterated calls for the permanent cancellation of the permit, alleging the project lacked sufficient public consultation and community consent.
The group also urged the national government to adopt stricter mining regulations and push policy reforms, including the repeal of the Philippine Mining Act and passage of the Alternative Minerals Management Bill.
As of press time, Woggle Corporation and the MGB have yet to release additional statements regarding the future of the exploration activities.|
